As Luis Enrique “Lucho” Martinez’s career comes to an end as head coach of Football Club Barcelona, the club looks to find new success in the 2017-18 campaign under new head coach Ernesto Valverde.
The 2016-17 season finished with a Copa del Rey win for the Catalan club, as they emerged victors with a 3-1 score over Deportivo Alaves in May. Although they were unable to close the gap on the Liga table, they do not have much to worry about. The Blaugrana finished three points behind Real Madrid, as both teams finished the season with five consecutive wins.
Barcelona must keep an open eye this summer as they look to bring in talent that could help them regain the top position in the league -- and try to see their way to another treble. Martinez led them to the feat in his first season with the club, which was also Luis Suarez’s first year at Barcelona, after coming from Liverpool.
MSN -- Messi, Suarez, Neymar -- will continue to amaze us with the Catalan club next season. Keep an eye on them as they will continue to lead the club in scoring for seasons to come. The attackers combined for 79 goals this season, with Messi leading the way with 37.
The club continues to trust Andres Iniesta as their captain, as there has not been any announcements regarding retirement. The midfielder’s current contract is set to expire in 2018, but it was reported by ESPNFC in December that the club and player were in talks regarding a new deal. The 32-year-old debuted with the first team 15 years ago and has been captain since 2015.
Speaking of contract’s the club must work out a new deal for their top striker, Messi. His contract will expire in 2018. Messi’s value is important to the club as he’s been their most valuable player for years. The five time Ballon d’Or winner is vital to the club’s success next season.
Defense has not been an issue for the club, especially with the rising talent of Samuel Umtiti. While Javier Mascherano was struck with a knee injury during the Copa del Rey final, the French center back shined during the season after coming over from Olympique Lyon last year.
Valverde will lead the club this summer when they play in the International Champions Cup, with their first game on July 22 against Italian club Juventus in the Meadowlands Stadium.